Keonjhar, 8th Sept 2025: Farmers in Keonjhar district are showing a growing interest in lemon cultivation, thanks to the region’s favorable climate and soil conditions. With consistent market demand and stable prices for lemons throughout the year, many farmers are now seeing it as a profitable option.
✅ Government Support for Lemon Cultivation
To promote horticulture-based self-employment, the State Government is distributing free lemon saplings to interested farmers. Under the 2023-24 financial year, through MGNREGS and DMF grants, the Horticulture Department has planted 1,600 high-quality lemon saplings on 4 hectares of land owned by 7 beneficiaries in Shikabeda village, under Panisadiha Panchayat of Anandapur block.
According to Soumendra Narayan Panigrahi, Deputy Director of the Horticulture Department, these saplings are expected to bear fruit in 3 years, which could meet local demand in Anandapur and nearby blocks.
Financial Incentives
Under the State Scheme, farmers receive 50% input subsidy.
High-quality lemon saplings are being provided at subsidized rates.
Through the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign this month, saplings are being distributed to promote tree plantation.
Soil & Market Suitability
The soil in Keonjhar is highly conducive for lemon farming.
According to Pakale Mohanta, a farmer from Baurpura village in Patna block, proper support and promotion from the Horticulture Department could lead to high-yield and profitable lemon production.
Market Dynamics
Lemon prices typically rise during summer, especially from January to June.
During this peak demand period, lemons are imported from Andhra Pradesh at higher costs.
If local production increases, cheaper lemons can be made available to local consumers.
Arjun Sonkar, a vendor near Keonjhar daily market, said lemons from Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj are sold until December, after which demand is met by imports.
Outlook
There’s growing discussion that with continued government encouragement and farmer participation:
Keonjhar could become self-reliant in lemon production.
It could reduce dependence on other states.
It could generate additional income for local farmers.
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